MAAIKE BOONSTRA 1921 - 2008 Maaike or May a she was known to friends was born in Holland, the third of eight children of a ship's captain working carrying commercial trade along the canals of her native land. She had limited schooling - as her family moved often from place to place. She lived through the depression and survived the occupation of her native country during the war working on a farm as a young woman. There she met Jan, her soon to be husband. They married shortly after the war ended. With two children Klaaske and Bouwe and Jan, she emigrated to Canada, the place of new beginnings - arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax as so many other post war families. Life in Canada began in Alberta under the sponsorship of another family. Edmonton was to be her home for the next 15 years. A third child, Roberta, was born into the family during that time. The family eventually settled in British Columbia - arriving in Kamloops where May lived most of the remainder of her life except for a few years in New Westminster, White Rock and Salmon Arm. May was predeceased by her grandson Brent in 1991 and by her husband in 1993. She lived independently in Kamloops until 2003 in Ashley Court, and later at Berwick until 2005. Struggles with Alzheimer's forced her to give up an independent life in 2005. She has been at Overlander Extended Care until her time finally came to rest. Hers was a simple domestic life and one filled with many challenges. Her grit and determination to look after her family will always be remembered. She wanted to create for her children and grandchildren the opportunities that she never had for herself. Mom loved flowers, gardening, and time with her family. She always made time for a proper visit with tea and cookies. She was so proud of every accomplishment and service to community shown by her offspring. In her final years May managed to warm the hearts of many with her sense of humour. Though her ability to communicate verbally finally left her, she still took pleasure in the company of others. Many thanks are owed to the seniors and staff at Berwick who gave her another year and a half of independent living. Thanks so much as well - to the many faces of Interior Health, Dr. Boughton, and staff at Overlander Extended Care - who took care of Mom's ongoing needs in her final years. Your kindness is immeasurable. May is survived by her son Bob Boonstra (Barb), Claire Saxon (Tom), Roberta Boyd (Tom) and grandchildren Adrianne, Brenna, Brian and Devon as well as siblings and extended family in Holland. No formal service by request.